国际驾驶执照 Finland

Is an International Driving Permit needed in Finland?

If you are planning to stay permanently in Finland, you must register your Finnish driver’s license. If that is not the case, you do not need an International Driving Permit issued in Finland. Although the term ‘International Driving Permit’ is often used, an IDP is not a license on its own. If you do not have an IDP yet, you can easily apply online with International Travel Permits to be prepared in Finland. If you come from an EEA country, you are allowed to drive only with your valid driver’s license. However, it is always helpful to have an International Driving Permit with you to avoid potential issues.

How long is an International Driving Permit valid for?

The document that translates your valid driver’s license is called an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP can be valid for up to three years, although the commonly used international driver’s license is valid for only one year. It is important to check the validity of your driver’s license to be able to drive in the country and to know that the IDP from your chosen provider may only be recognized in certain countries.

Our IDP is used in more than 165 countries worldwide, including:

• Japan
• Macau
• New Zealand
• Norway
• Portugal
• Spain
• Switzerland
• Taiwan
• United Kingdom
• Iceland
• Italy
• Netherlands
• Ukraine
• and more.

How do I obtain a driver’s license in Finland?

If you are driving a rental car in Finland for less than three months, you do not need to obtain a Finnish driver’s license according to the Geneva Convention on Road Traffic. In this case, you only need an International Driving Permit.

If you plan to drive longer in Finland and become a permanent resident, you will need both an IDP and a Finnish driver’s license. To obtain this, you must enroll in a driving school, take a driving test, and undergo a medical examination before receiving your driver’s license.

Top Destinations in Finland

Finland has received its cultural influences from neighboring countries such as Sweden, Norway, and Russia. Travelers worldwide plan their trips to maximize each destination. Discover the beauty this country has to offer and remember to leave only footprints and take photos and memories home.

Lake Keitele (Äänekoski)

Lake Keitele is one of the largest lakes in Finland, with an area of over 493 square kilometers and a panoramic view of 365 degrees. Along the shores of this beautiful lake are scattered local villages. Enjoy fishing in the pristine waters with an abundant fish population due to low pressure. Explore the lush forest and its vastness.

Formerly industrial sites dotted the coastlines of Lake Keitele, but with the enchanting environment, the local government began embracing innovation. They started promoting the area for its natural walks, beautiful springs, and bike paths. Today, this serene lake attracts watersports enthusiasts and holidaymakers appreciating its beauty. Summer is the best time to enjoy Lake Keitele, where you can swim in the refreshing water.

How to get there:

• From Helsinki Airport, take Route 50/E18 from Route 135.
• Follow Route 4/E75 to Kalaniementie in Äänekoski.
• Take Havusalmentie to Nuijamiehentie.

Oulanka National Park

In Oulanka National Park, you will find hiking trails and suspension bridges leading to some of the most impressive waterfalls in the region. The Kiutaköngäs waterfalls are known for their beautiful flows. Plan your hike carefully and do not stray off the designated paths.

The best time to visit Oulanka Park is during the autumn, where you can admire the colorful leaves. The park offers activities such as canoeing and hiking in the summer. In winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular activities, alongside the majestic views and landscapes the park offers.

How to get there:

• From Helsinki Airport, take Route 50/E18 from Route 135.
• Follow Route 4/E75, Route 5, and E63 to Sallantie/Route 950 in Kuusamo.
• Drive to Liikasenvaarantie/Route 8693.

The Capital: Helsinki

Helsinki is considered one of the most dynamic cities in the country, where trade and business transactions are frequent. Living in Helsinki can be pricey, but the city hosts unique attractions such as the Sibelius Monument, the rock church, Seurasaari Island, and traditional sauna visits.

With high-rise buildings and perfect infrastructure, Helsinki is ideal for sightseeing with family and friends. To experience the city properly, many recommend planning at least three days, as there is so much to see and do. The best time to visit Helsinki is in May, early June, or September, although visitors travel to and from the city throughout the year.

How to get there:

• Take Route 50/E18 from Route 135.
• Take Route 45 to Backasgatan/Mäkelänkatu in Helsinki.
• Continue on Backasgatan/Mäkelänkatu. Take Sturegatan/Sturenkatu to Mannerheimintie/Mannerheimvägen/E12.
• Use the left two lanes to turn left onto Mannerheimintie/Mannerheimvägen/E12.
• Continue on Simonkatu/Simonsgatan to your destination.

Svedjehamn (Kvarken Archipelago)

Svedjehamn is a fishing village in the Kvarken Archipelago, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This archipelago is known for its islands that rise from the sea by 1 centimeter each year since the last ice age. Explore the wooded paths in the area and enjoy the natural beauty.

The Kvarken Archipelago comprises 6,500 islands captivating both new and seasoned travelers. Guided tours provide insight into the surroundings. During the summer, you can make slalom cruises to explore places that would otherwise remain hidden. Activities in Kvarken include cruises, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and biking. When driving, you need an IDP, which can be easily applied for online.

Rovaniemi (Arctic Circle)

Rovaniemi is located on the Arctic Circle in Lapland, Finland, and is a popular tourist destination because of the iconic glass igloos. Tourists visit Rovaniemi for Santa Claus Village and encounters with reindeer. Explore the hiking trails and the Kemijoki River for a unique swimming experience.

Winter is the ideal time to visit Rovaniemi. Experience Scandinavian winters with Northern Lights hunting, snowshoeing, and snowmobile safaris. The majestic landscapes add a magical touch to your trip.

How to get there:

• Take Route 50/E18 from Route 135.
• Follow Route 4/E75 to Ranuantie/Route 924 in Simo.
• Continue on Ranuantie/Route 924. Take Route 923 and Route 926 to Kemintie/E75 in Rovaniemi.
• Follow the E75 to Hallituskatu. Take the exit towards Keskusta Centre from the E75.
• Drive to Rovakatu.

Savonlinna (Saimaa Lakes)

Savonlinna, located in Eastern Finland, is home to 35,000 inhabitants and is built on islands. Visitors can enjoy spas, resorts, and explore the striking Olavinlinna Castle. The Saimaa Lake, the largest lake in Savonlinna, offers a range of activities.

A visit to Savonlinna provides a unique experience of Finnish culture. Combine the beautiful landscape with local delicacies. The best time to visit Savonlinna is from June to September, when the weather is ideal.

How to get there:

• Take Route 50/E18 from Route 135.
• Follow Route 4/E75 and Route 5 to Savonlinnantie/Route 14 in Juva. Take the Savonlinna/Juva/Pieksämäki/Virtasalmi exit from Viitostie/Route 5.
• Follow Route 14 to Kauppatori in Nyslott.

Porvoo

Porvoo, a charming town east of Helsinki, is known as the second oldest city in Finland. The ochre-colored cottages and red buildings are a delight to the eyes. Discover the cathedral, the Edelfelt-Vallgren Museum, and other attractions.

Porvoo’s history dates back to the 13th century and now attracts many visitors. For skiing enthusiasts, March is the ideal month to experience fresh powder snow. Explore the old town, the castle hill, and the cathedral during your trip.

How to get there:

• Take Route 50/E18 from Route 135.
• Follow Route 7/E18 to Borgå. Take exit 60 from Route 7/E18.
• Follow Läntinen Mannerheiminväylä/Västra Mannerheimvägen and Route 170 to Fredsgatan/Rauhankatu/Route 1552.

Hämeenlinna

Hämeenlinna is home to the Tavastehus Castle, built in the 13th century, and is a popular spot for tourists. In the city, you will find parks and museums such as the Aulanko Nature Reserve, the Sibelius Museum, and the Hämeenlinna Historical Museum.

The best time to visit Hämeenlinna is from June to September. You can join organized tours or explore on your own. Popular spots in Hämeenlinna include the Kukko Cafe, the wine bar Nooran Viinibaari, and the pub Albertin Kellari.

How to get there:

• Take Route 50/E18 from Route 135.
• Follow the E12 to exit 24 in Tavastehus.
• Merge onto Route 50/E18.
• Take exit 39B for Route 3/E12 towards Tampere/Tammerfors/Hämeenlinna/Tavastehus.
• Merge onto the E12.
• Take exit 24 for Hämeenlinna/Aulanko.

Northern Lights, Lapland

The Northern Lights are one of the reasons people travel to Lapland. This natural phenomenon is visible between September and March on clear nights. However, Northern Lights enthusiasts should book their hotel rooms in advance due to the popularity of this travel period.

The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are best seen from October to March in the northern region of Lapland. Although March can sometimes be cloudy, the lights are usually visible from 7:00 pm to 2:00 am.

How to get there:

• Take Route 50/E18 from Route 135.
• Follow Route 4/E75 to Ranuantie/Route 924 in Simo.
• Continue on Ranuantie/Route 924. Take Route 923 and Route 926 to Kemintie/E75 in Rovaniemi.
• Follow the E75 to Pomokairantie in Sodankylä.
• Drive to Pomojoentie.

Lemmenjoki National Park

For an adventurous nature experience in Finland, visit Lemmenjoki National Park. With vast wilderness, the park offers free wilderness huts, saunas, and campfire sites. Discover wildlife such as brown bears, moose, and eagles in the forests.

Established in 1956 and expanded to become Finland’s largest park, Lemmenjoki National Park covers 1,100 square miles. Visitors can enjoy the autumn colors in September and experience what the park has to offer. It is an ideal place for families.

How to get there:

• Take Route 50/E18 from Route 135.
• Follow Route 4/E75 to Ranuantie/Route 924 in Simo.
• Continue on Ranuantie/Route 924. Take Route 923 and Route 926 to Kemintie/E75 in Rovaniemi.
• Follow the E75 to Kuusamontie/Route 81. Take exit 56 from the E75.
• Follow various routes to your destination in Inari.

Local Food Shops

In addition to the beautiful destinations, Finland also offers delicious traditional dishes that you must try. The local cuisine uses ingredients from lakes and forests to respect the environment. Here are some of the Finnish dishes you should not miss during your stay in Finland.

Korvapuusti (Cinnamon Bun)

While cinnamon buns are famous worldwide, the Finnish version, Korvapuusti, is a unique delicacy. It’s best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or warm milk. The name literally means ‘a slap on the ear,’ due to the bun’s resemblance to a human ear.

Merimiespata (Stew)

Merimiespata is a Finnish stew made with beef, potatoes, onions, and beef. It is traditionally prepared in the oven and seasoned with herbs. Many find it even tastier the next day after the flavors have melded well.

Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian Pie)

Karjalanpiirakka originates from the Karelian region and is served with munavoi, a mix of hard-boiled eggs and butter. It is popular as a snack and can be warmed up and bought in the bakery section of supermarkets.

Poronkäristys (Reindeer Stew)

Beef, elk, and reindeer are significant food sources in Finland. Poronkäristys, reindeer stew, has a strong flavor and low fat content. It is a dish that is enjoyed for its unique taste.